Hi everybody,

Rank amateur here looking for advice for a new bike choice. I've got a budget of approximately $6-$700 and would prefer to drop the $$ at my LBS rather than bikes direct, nashbar, etc...

My wife & I are actively looking to reduce our oil dependence, and am looking for a lightweight hardtail, that can easily navigate a 13km(one way) commute in Kitchener-Waterloo Ontario, and then easily navigate a few nice snowmobile trails near Tobermory Ont. I'm 43 Years old, 5'8" and 170lbs, and consider myself to be in respectable shape for my age.

2 Bikes isn't in my budget.

I'm on an almost 10-year old Miele UA 500 now, and it's a bit of a pig, has served it's purpose, but showing it's age.

Thanks!